At a Glance
700Square Miles
100%Public Land
3,000 - 9,200Elevation Range
This unit is part of the region known as the Kaibab among serious trophy deer hunters. The western part of the parent Unit 12A, this unit has long been a top destination for hunters seeking trophy-class mule deer.
12AW has high densities of mule deer that have great genetics for growing world-class antlers and many of them grow old enough to reach their potential. Record book bucks live in this unit and late season rifle hunters take the vast majority of top-end bucks that are harvested each year.
Quick Tips
- Archers should hunt at high elevations
- Stand hunting near water can be productive during dry weather
- Early rifle mule deer hunters should expect heavy hunting pressure
- Mature bucks become nocturnal and keep to thick cover by early rifle season
- Focus on travel corridors near water and avoid roads during early rifle season
- If significant snow and cold weather occur, the herd migrates to lower elevations
- Additional hunting opportunities exist for bison, elk, blue grouse and Kaibab squirrel